Former Manchester United players Teden Mengi and Anthony Elanga have been proving their worth after being sold during the summer.
In the summer, Manchester United underwent a significant squad overhaul under Erik ten Hag, which involved selling several academy graduates to create opportunities for emerging talents.
Notable among the departures were Teden Mengi and Anthony Elanga, who secured moves to Luton Town and Nottingham Forest, respectively, seeking regular game time in the Premier League.
Mengi, highly praised by Rio Ferdinand for his potential, showcased his abilities on Saturday, scoring a crucial header and contributing defensively as Luton Town secured victory against Crystal Palace.
With a notable rating of 7.7 on SofaScore, Mengi’s performance raises questions about United’s defensive challenges and the decision to let him go.
Elanga, facing Brighton for Forest, displayed individual brilliance despite being on the losing side.
With three goals and three assists this season, including creating a significant chance, Elanga’s impact highlights the impressive form of former United youth players.
While celebrating the success of these young talents, there’s a sentiment of regret that they are thriving away from Old Trafford.
The situation prompts reflection on United’s decision to sell promising players, especially when the team is grappling with defensive turmoil and injuries.
The lessons to be learned from these departures involve reevaluating the club’s approach to nurturing young talents.
Utilizing the loan market to give players opportunities to prove themselves elsewhere while retaining their rights could be a more strategic move.
Many successful clubs employ such strategies, ensuring players’ development while maintaining a connection to the club.
As the club undergoes changes with the arrival of Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the new hierarchy, there’s hope that valuable lessons are drawn, and the club avoids selling promising talents at undervalued prices, securing a more sustainable approach to talent development.
